SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND IMPROVED FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS

[0001] The present invention relates to surgical instruments and, in various embodiments, to surgical stapling and cutting instruments and staple cartridges for use therewith.

[0002] A stapling instrument can include a pair of cooperating elongate jaw members, wherein each jaw member can be adapted to be inserted into a patient and positioned relative to tissue that is to be stapled and/or incised. In various embodiments, one of the jaw members can support a staple cartridge with at least two laterally spaced rows of staples contained therein, and the other jaw member can support an anvil with staple-forming pockets aligned with the rows of staples in the staple cartridge. Generally, the stapling instrument can further include a pusher bar and a knife blade which are slidable relative to the jaw members to sequentially eject the staples from the staple cartridge via camming surfaces on the pusher bar and/or camming surfaces on a wedge sled that is pushed by the pusher bar. In at least one embodiment, the camming surfaces can be configured to activate a plurality of staple drivers carried by the cartridge and associated with the staples in order to push the staples against the anvil and form laterally spaced rows of deformed staples in the tissue gripped between the jaw members. In at least one embodiment, the knife blade can trail the camming surfaces and cut the tissue along a line between the staple rows. Examples of such stapling instruments are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,794,475, entitled SURGICAL STAPLES HAVING COMPRESSIBLE OR CRUSHABLE MEMBERS FOR SECURING TISSUE THEREIN AND STAPLING INSTRUMENTS FOR DEPLOYING THE SAME, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] The foregoing discussion is intended only to illustrate various aspects of the related art in the field of the invention at the time, and should not be taken as a disavowal of claim scope.

[0085] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate certain embodiments of the invention, in one form, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

[0086] Applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications that were filed on Mar. 1, 2013 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0087] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,295, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH CONDUCTIVE PATHWAYS FOR SIGNAL COMMUNICATION, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246471;

[0088] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,323, entitled ROTARY POWERED ARTICULATION JOINTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246472;

[0089] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,338, entitled THUMBWHEEL SWITCH ARRANGEMENTS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0249557;

[0090] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,499, entitled ELECTROMECHANICAL SURGICAL DEVICE WITH SIGNAL RELAY ARRANGEMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246474;

[0091] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,460, entitled MULTIPLE PROCESSOR MOTOR CONTROL FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246478;

[0092] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,358, entitled JOYSTICK SWITCH ASSEMBLIES FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246477;

[0093] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,481, entitled SENSOR STRAIGHTENED END EFFECTOR DURING REMOVAL THROUGH TROCAR, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246479;

[0094] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,518, entitled CONTROL METHODS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH REMOVABLE IMPLEMENT PORTIONS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246475;

[0095] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,375, entitled ROTARY POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH MULTIPLE DEGREES OF FREEDOM, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246473; and

[0096] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/782,536, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SOFT STOP, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0246476.

[0097] Applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on Mar. 14, 2013 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0098] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,097, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263542;

[0099] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,193, entitled CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR A DRIVE MEMBER OF A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263537;

[0100] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,053, entitled INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263564;

[0101] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541;

[0102] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,210, entitled SENSOR ARRANGEMENTS FOR ABSOLUTE POSITIONING SYSTEM FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263538;

[0103] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,148, entitled MULTI-FUNCTION MOTOR FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263554;

[0104] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,066, entitled DRIVE SYSTEM LOCKOUT ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263565;

[0105] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,117, entitled ARTICULATION CONTROL SYSTEM FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263553;

[0106] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,130, entitled DRIVE TRAIN CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS FOR MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263543; and

[0107] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,159, entitled METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR OPERATING A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0277017.

[0108] Applicant of the present application also owns the following patent application that was filed on Mar. 7, 2014 and is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety:

[0109] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/200,111, entitled CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263539.

[0110] Applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on Mar. 26, 2014 and are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0111] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,106, entitled POWER MANAGEMENT CONTROL SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0112] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,099, entitled STERILIZATION VERIFICATION CIRCUIT;

[0113] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,094, entitled VERIFICATION OF NUMBER OF BATTERY EXCHANGES/PROCEDURE COUNT;

[0114] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,117, entitled POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SLEEP OPTIONS OF SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND WAKE UP CONTROL;

[0115] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,075, entitled MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES;

[0116] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,093, entitled FEEDBACK ALGORITHMS FOR MANUAL BAILOUT SYSTEMS FOR SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0117] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,116, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT UTILIZING SENSOR ADAPTATION;

[0118] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,071, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT CONTROL CIRCUIT HAVING A SAFETY PROCESSOR;

[0119] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,097, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING INTERACTIVE SYSTEMS;

[0120] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,126, entitled INTERFACE SYSTEMS FOR USE WITH SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS;

[0121] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,133, entitled MODULAR SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEM;

[0122] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,081, entitled SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING A SEGMENTED CIRCUIT;

[0123] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,076, entitled POWER MANAGEMENT THROUGH SEGMENTED CIRCUIT AND VARIABLE VOLTAGE PROTECTION;

[0124] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,111, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT SYSTEM; and

[0125] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,125, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A ROTATABLE SHAFT.

[0126] Applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on Sep. 5, 2014 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0127] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,103, entitled CIRCUITRY AND SENSORS FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE;

[0128] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,119, entitled ADJUNCT WITH INTEGRATED SENSORS TO QUANTIFY TISSUE COMPRESSION;

[0129] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/478,908, entitled MONITORING DEVICE DEGRADATION BASED ON COMPONENT EVALUATION;

[0130] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/478,895, entitled MULTIPLE SENSORS WITH ONE SENSOR AFFECTING A SECOND SENSOR'S OUTPUT OR INTERPRETATION;

[0131] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,110, entitled USE OF POLARITY OF HALL MAGNET DETECTION TO DETECT MISLOADED CARTRIDGE;

[0132] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,098, entitled SMART CARTRIDGE WAKE UP OPERATION AND DATA RETENTION;

[0133] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,115, entitled MULTIPLE MOTOR CONTROL FOR POWERED MEDICAL DEVICE; and

[0134] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/479,108, entitled LOCAL DISPLAY OF TISSUE PARAMETER STABILIZATION.

[0135] Applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on Apr. 9, 2014 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0136] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,590, entitled MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH LOCKABLE DUAL DRIVE SHAFTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305987;

[0137] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,581, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A CLOSING DRIVE AND A FIRING DRIVE OPERATED FROM THE SAME ROTATABLE OUTPUT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305989;

[0138] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,595, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SHAFT INCLUDING SWITCHES FOR CONTROLLING THE OPERATION OF THE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305988;

[0139] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,588, entitled POWERED LINEAR SURGICAL STAPLER, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309666;

[0140] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,591, entitled TRANSMISSION ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305991;

[0141] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,584, entitled MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ALIGNMENT FEATURES FOR ALIGNING ROTARY DRIVE SHAFTS WITH SURGICAL END EFFECTOR SHAFTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305994;

[0142] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,587, entitled POWERED SURGICAL STAPLER, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0309665;

[0143] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,586, entitled DRIVE SYSTEM DECOUPLING ARRANGEMENT FOR A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305990; and

[0144] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/248,607, entitled MODULAR MOTOR DRIVEN SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH STATUS INDICATION ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0305992.

[0145] Applicant of the present application also owns the following patent applications that were filed on Apr. 16, 2013 and which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0146] U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,365, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR;

[0147] U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,376, entitled LINEAR CUTTER WITH POWER;

[0148] U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,382, entitled LINEAR CUTTER WITH MOTOR AND PISTOL GRIP;

[0149] U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,385, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HANDLE WITH MULTIPLE ACTUATION MOTORS AND MOTOR CONTROL; and

[0150] U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/812,372, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH MULTIPLE FUNCTIONS PERFORMED BY A SINGLE MOTOR.

[0151] Applicant of the present application owns the following patent applications that were filed on even date herewith which are each herein incorporated by reference in their respective entireties:

[0152] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT SYSTEMS COMPRISING AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR AND MEANS FOR ADJUSTING THE FIRING STROKE OF A FIRING MEMBER, Attorney Docket No. END7415USNP/140289;

[0153] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING LOCKABLE SYSTEMS, Attorney Docket No. END7416USNP/140291;

[0154] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled DRIVE ARRANGEMENTS FOR ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS, Attorney Docket No. END7418USNP/140292;

[0155] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled LOCKING ARRANGEMENTS FOR DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES WITH ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL END EFFECTORS, Attorney Docket No. END7417USNP/140293;

[0156] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH AN ANVIL THAT IS SELECTIVELY MOVABLE ABOUT A DISCRETE NON-MOVABLE AXIS RELATIVE TO A STAPLE CARTRIDGE, Attorney Docket No. END7485USNP1140295;

[0157] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH IMPROVED CLOSURE ARRANGEMENTS, Attorney Docket No. END7486/140296;

[0158] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS WITH ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTORS AND MOVABLE FIRING BEAM SUPPORT ARRANGEMENTS, Attorney Docket No. END7489USNP/140299;

[0159] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A FLEXIBLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM, Attorney Docket No. END7492USNP/140302; and

[0160] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT ASSEMBLY COMPRISING A LOCKABLE ARTICULATION SYSTEM, Attorney Docket No. END7494USNP/140304.

[0161] Numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the embodiments as described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Well-known operations, components, and elements have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the embodiments described in the specification. The reader will understand that the embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and thus it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein may be representative and illustrative. Variations and changes thereto may be made without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0162] The terms “comprise” (and any form of comprise, such as “comprises” and “comprising”), “have” (and any form of have, such as “has” and “having”), “include” (and any form of include, such as “includes” and “including”) and “contain” (and any form of contain, such as “contains” and “containing”) are open-ended linking verbs. As a result, a surgical system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more elements possesses those one or more elements, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more elements. Likewise, an element of a system, device, or apparatus that “comprises,” “has,” “includes” or “contains” one or more features possesses those one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only those one or more features.

[0163] The terms “proximal” and “distal” are used herein with reference to a clinician manipulating the handle portion of the surgical instrument. The term “proximal” referring to the portion closest to the clinician and the term “distal” referring to the portion located away from the clinician. It will be further appreciated that, for convenience and clarity, spatial terms such as “vertical”, “horizontal”, “up”, and “down” may be used herein with respect to the drawings. However, surgical instruments are used in many orientations and positions, and these terms are not intended to be limiting and/or absolute.

[0164] Various exemplary devices and methods are provided for performing laparoscopic and minimally invasive surgical procedures. However, the reader will readily appreciate that the various methods and devices disclosed herein can be used in numerous surgical procedures and applications including, for example, in connection with open surgical procedures. As the present Detailed Description proceeds, the reader will further appreciate that the various instruments disclosed herein can be inserted into a body in any way, such as through a natural orifice, through an incision or puncture hole formed in tissue, etc. The working portions or “end effector” portions of the instruments can be inserted directly into a patient's body or can be inserted through an access device that has a working channel through which the end effector and elongated shaft of a surgical instrument can be advanced.

[0165] A surgical stapling system can comprise a shaft and an end effector extending from the shaft. The end effector comprises a first jaw and a second jaw. The first jaw comprises a staple cartridge. The staple cartridge is insertable into and removable from the first jaw; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which a staple cartridge is not removable from, or at least readily replaceable from, the first jaw. The second jaw comprises an anvil configured to deform staples ejected from the staple cartridge. The second jaw is pivotable relative to the first jaw about a closure axis; however, other embodiments are envisioned in which first jaw is pivotable relative to the second jaw. The surgical stapling system further comprises an articulation joint configured to permit the end effector to be rotated, or articulated, relative to the shaft. The end effector is rotatable about an articulation axis extending through the articulation joint. Other embodiments are envisioned which do not include an articulation joint.

[0166] The staple cartridge comprises a cartridge body. The cartridge body includes a proximal end, a distal end, and a deck extending between the proximal end and the distal end. In use, the staple cartridge is positioned on a first side of the tissue to be stapled and the anvil is positioned on a second side of the tissue. The anvil is moved toward the staple cartridge to compress and clamp the tissue against the deck. Thereafter, staples removably stored in the cartridge body can be deployed into the tissue. The cartridge body includes staple cavities defined therein wherein staples are removably stored in the staple cavities. The staple cavities are arranged in six longitudinal rows. Three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a first side of a longitudinal slot and three rows of staple cavities are positioned on a second side of the longitudinal slot. Other arrangements of staple cavities and staples may be possible.

[0167] The staples are supported by staple drivers in the cartridge body. The drivers are movable between a first, or unfired position, and a second, or fired, position to eject the staples from the staple cavities. The drivers are retained in the cartridge body by a retainer which extends around the bottom of the cartridge body and includes resilient members configured to grip the cartridge body and hold the retainer to the cartridge body. The drivers are movable between their unfired positions and their fired positions by a sled. The sled is movable between a proximal position adjacent the proximal end and a distal position adjacent the distal end. The sled comprises a plurality of ramped surfaces configured to slide under the drivers and lift the drivers, and the staples supported thereon, toward the anvil.

[0168] Further to the above, the sled is moved distally by a firing member. The firing member is configured to contact the sled and push the sled toward the distal end. The longitudinal slot defined in the cartridge body is configured to receive the firing member. The anvil also includes a slot configured to receive the firing member. The firing member further comprises a first cam which engages the first jaw and a second cam which engages the second jaw. As the firing member is advanced distally, the first cam and the second cam can control the distance, or tissue gap, between the deck of the staple cartridge and the anvil. The firing member also comprises a knife configured to incise the tissue captured intermediate the staple cartridge and the anvil. It is desirable for the knife to be positioned at least partially proximal to the ramped surfaces such that the staples are ejected ahead of the knife.

[0169] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary motor driven (or “powered”) surgical instrument 10 which includes a housing 20, an elongate shaft assembly 100 and an end effector 200 that is operably connected to the elongate shaft assembly 100. The end effector 200 as shown is configured to act as an endocutter for clamping, severing and stapling tissue. However, it will be appreciated that various embodiments may include end effectors configured to act as other surgical devices including, for example, graspers, cutters, staplers, clip appliers, access devices, drug/gene therapy delivery devices, ultrasound, RF, and/or laser energy devices, etc. As indicated above and will be describe further below, various portions of the surgical instrument 10 are motor driven. Further details regarding many aspects of the motor driven components of surgical instrument 10 may be found, for example, in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,086, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING AN ARTICULATION LOCK, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541, which has been incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. However, it will be understood that the various end effector arrangements disclosed herein may also be effectively employed in connection with hand-held housings (handles) that contain “manually operable” (i.e. not powered by motor(s)) firing and closure systems such as those disclosed in the aforementioned incorporated U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates the end effector 200 attached to an elongate shaft assembly 100′ that is operably attached to a housing 20′ of a surgical instrument 10′ that operably supports manually operable closure and firing systems.

[0170] It will also be appreciated that various arrangements disclosed herein may be effectively employed in connection with robotically-controlled surgical systems. For example, various arrangements disclosed herein may be employed with various robotic systems, instruments, components and methods disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0298719, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. For example, FIG. 3 depicts a surgical instrument 10″ that is well-adapted for use with a robotic system such as the robotic system 13 depicted in FIG. 4. The surgical instrument 10″ includes an end effector 200 that is operably attached to an elongate shaft assembly 100″ that is coupled to a housing 20″ in the form of a tool drive assembly. FIG. 4, illustrates a robotic arm cart 15 that is configured to actuate a plurality of surgical tools such as surgical tools 10″. The robotic arm cart 15 and the surgical tools 10″ may be controlled by a master controller 17 that is operably coupled (directly or wirelessly) thereto. Various details concerning the operation of robotic system components and various tool drive assemblies may be found in the aforementioned incorporated U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0298719, as well as in U.S. Pat. No. 6,132,368, entitled MULTI-COMPONENT TELEPRESENCE SYSTEM AND METHOD, U.S. Pat. No. 5,878,193, entitled AUTOMATED ENDOSCOPE SYSTEM FOR OPTIMAL POSITIONING, U.S. Pat. No. 5,792,135, entitled ARTICULATED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT FOR PERFORMING MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY WITH ENHANCED DEXTERITY AND SENSITIVITY, U.S. Pat. No. 6,231,565, entitled ROBOTIC ARM DLUS FOR PERFORMING SURGICAL TASKS, U.S. Pat. No. 6,783,524, entitled ROBOTIC SURGICAL TOOL WITH ULTRASOUND CAUTERIZING AND CUTTING INSTRUMENT, U.S. Pat. No. 6,364,888, entitled ALIGNMENT OF MASTER AND SLAVE IN A MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGICAL APPARATUS, U.S. Pat. No. 7,524,320, entitled MECHANICAL ACTUATOR INTERFACE SYSTEM FOR ROBOTIC SURGICAL TOOLS, U.S. Pat. No. 7,691,098, entitled PLATFORM LINK WRIST MECHANISM, U.S. Pat. No. 7,806,891, entitled REPOSITIONING AND REORIENTATION OF MASTER/SLAVE RELATIONSHIP IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE TELESURGERY, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,824,401, entitled SURGICAL TOOL WITH WRITED MONOPOLAR ELECTROSURGICAL END EFFECTORS the entire disclosures of which are each hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0171] Thus, as used herein, the term “housing” may also encompass a housing or similar portion of a robotic system that houses or otherwise operably supports at least one drive system that is configured to generate and apply at least one control motion which could be used to actuate the interchangeable shaft assemblies disclosed herein and their respective equivalents. The term “frame” may refer to a portion of a handheld surgical instrument, e.g., a “handle”. The term “frame” may also represent a portion of a robotically-controlled surgical instrument and/or a portion of the robotic system that may be used to operably control a surgical instrument.

[0172] It should be appreciated that spatial terms such as vertical, horizontal, right, left, etc. are given herein with reference to the Figures assuming that the longitudinal or “shaft axis” of the surgical instrument 10 (or of the other surgical instrument examples disclosed herein) is co-axial to the central axis of the shaft 100. In actual practice, however, any of the surgical instruments disclosed herein may be oriented at various angles and as such these spatial terms are used relative to the surgical instrument itself. Further, for a hand-held housing, “proximal” is used to denote a perspective of a clinician who is behind the handle who places the end effector distal, or away from him or herself. As used herein, the phrase, “substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis” where the “longitudinal axis” is the axis of the shaft, refers to a direction that is nearly perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. It will be appreciated, however, that directions that deviate some from perpendicular to the longitudinal axis are also substantially transverse to the longitudinal axis.

[0173] As can be seen in FIG. 1, the end effector 200 is pivotally connected to the shaft 100 at articulation joint 109. A variety of articulation joints and control systems are disclosed in various patents and patent applications that have been incorporated by reference herein. Other articulation joints and articulation systems are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,753,245, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS and U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,334, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Various other means for articulating the end effector 200 are discussed in greater detail below.

[0174] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the end effector 200 includes, among other things, an elongate channel 210 that is configured to operably support a staple cartridge 230 therein. The staple cartridge 230 includes a cartridge body 232 that has a centrally-disposed, elongate cartridge slot 234 therein (FIG. 6). In the illustrated arrangement, the staple cartridge 230 has three rows 238 of staple pockets 236 on each side of the elongate cartridge slot 234. One or more surgical staples 242 are supported on corresponding staple drivers 240 that are movably supported in the staple pockets 236. A cartridge pan 215 is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 232. The cartridge pan 215 includes a pan slot 217 that is aligned with the cartridge slot 234 and a channel slot 212 in the elongate channel 210. See FIG. 6.

[0175] The surgical instrument 10 further includes a firing member 300 that is attached to a firing beam 310 that interfaces with a firing system that is supported in the housing 20, 20′ or 20″. The firing system may be powered by a motor arrangement supported in the handle 20 (FIG. 1) or it may be manually operated by actuating a firing trigger 26′ (FIG. 2) or it may be powered by the robotic system 13 (FIG. 4). Whichever arrangement is employed, upon actuation, the firing system will apply an axial firing motion to the firing beam 310 to drive the firing member 300 in the distal direction “DD”. As can be seen in FIG. 6, the firing member 300 includes a vertically-extending firing member body 302 that has a tissue cutting surface or blade 304 thereon. A first firing member tab 306 protrudes from a first lateral side 305 of the firing member body 302 and a second firing member tab 308 protrudes from a second lateral side 307 of the firing member body 302. In addition, a first middle tab (not shown) protrudes from the first lateral side 305 of the firing member body 302 and a second middle tab 309 protrudes from the second lateral side 307 of the firing member body 302. The firing member 300 further includes a tab or foot 312 that protrudes laterally from the bottom of the firing member body 302. The purpose of the tabs 306, 308, 309 and foot 312 will be discussed in further detail below. In addition, a wedge sled 320 may be mounted within the cartridge body 232 for driving contact with the firing member 300. As the firing member 300 is driven distally through the cartridge body 232, the wedge surfaces 322 contact the staple drivers 240 to actuate the drivers 240 and the surgical staples 242 supported thereon upwardly in the cartridge body 232.

[0176] The end effector 200 further includes an anvil 250 that includes an anvil body 252 that has a staple forming undersurface 254 thereon. The anvil 250 also includes an anvil mounting portion 260 for pivotally coupling the anvil 250 to the proximal end portion 211 of the elongate channel 210 for pivotal travel relative thereto about a non-movable anvil axis A-A. As can be most particularly seen in FIGS. 6 and 10, the anvil mounting portion 260 in the illustrated arrangement comprises a proximally protruding first anvil arm 262 that includes an inwardly extending first anvil trunnion 264. The illustrated anvil mounting portion 260 further comprises a proximally protruding second anvil arm 266 that is spaced from the first anvil arm 262. A second anvil trunnion 268 protrudes inwardly from the second anvil arm 266. The first anvil trunnion 264 is rotatably supported in a first trunnion hole 214 that is provided in the proximal end portion 211 of the elongate channel 210 (FIG. 8) and the second anvil trunnion 268 is rotatably received in a second trunnion hole 216 (FIGS. 3, 7, 8 and 9) in the proximal end portion 211 of the elongate channel 210. The first and second trunnion holes 214, 216 serve to define the non-movable anvil axis A-A which is transverse to the longitudinal shaft axis SA-SA. When the first anvil trunnion 264 is rotatably received with the first trunnion hole 214 and the second anvil trunnion 268 is received in the second anvil trunnion hole 216, the anvil 250 is movable relative to the elongate channel 210 such that the distal end 253 of the anvil 250 can be selectively moved toward and away from the elongate channel 210.

[0177] Referring to FIGS. 3, 10 and 11, the anvil mounting portion 260 includes a closure ramp portion 270. The closure ramp portion 270 includes a first ramp segment 272 and a second ramp segment 274 that is spaced from the first ramp segment 272 to form a firing member staging opening 280 therebetween. See FIGS. 10, 12 and 13. As can be seen in FIG. 12, the top portion of the firing member 300 may extend into the staging opening 280 when the anvil 250 is in an open position and the firing member 300 is in a starting or unfired position. When the anvil 250 is closed as shown in FIG. 13, the top of the firing member 300 extends through the staging opening 280. Referring to FIG. 10, an elongate anvil slot 290 is provided in the staple-forming undersurface 254 of the anvil 250. In addition, a first closure ledge 292 and a second closure ledge 294 are formed on the lateral sides of the anvil slot 290. A first closure ledge ramp 273 is provided in the closure ramp portion 270 and leads onto the first closure ledge 292 and a second closure ledge ramp 275 is provided in the closure ramp portion 270 and leads onto the second closure ledge 294.

[0178] The anvil 250 is moved to an open position (FIG. 12) by a spring (not shown) that biases the anvil mounting 260 portion upward relative to the proximal end 211 of the elongate channel 210 so the staple forming undersurface 254 of the anvil 250 is spaced from the surgical staple cartridge 230. The distal end 253 of the anvil 250 is moved toward the surgical staple cartridge 230 to closed positions relative thereto by actuating a closure system that axially advances a closure member 110 distally into contact with the closure ramp portion 270. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, the closure member 110 comprises a closure tube assembly 120 that is axially movable in response to closure motions generated by closure system supported in the housing. The closure system may be powered by a motor arrangement supported in the handle 20 or it may be manually operated by actuating a closure trigger 28 (FIG. 1) or 28′ (FIG. 2) or it may be powered by the robotic system 13 (FIG. 4). Whichever arrangement is employed, actuation of the closure system will cause an axial closure motion to be applied to the closure tube assembly 120 of the shaft assembly 100. FIG. 12 illustrates the position of the closure tube assembly 120 prior to actuation of the closure system. As the closure tube assembly 120 is driven in the distal direction, “DD”, the distal end 122 of the closure tube assembly 120 contacts the closure ramp portion 270 of the anvil mounting portion 260 and pivots the anvil 250 such that the distal end 253 thereof moves toward the surgical staple cartridge 230. FIG. 13 illustrates the position of the closure tube assembly 120 in a “fully closed” position. Once the anvil 250 is moved into the fully closed position, the firing system may be actuated to axially drive the firing member 300 from the unactuated or starting position shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 distally through the staple cartridge 230 to cut tissue clamped between the staple forming undersurface 254 of the anvil 250 and the staple cartridge 230. As the firing member 300 moves distally, the first tab 306 moves up the first closure ramp 273 onto the first closure ledge 292 and the second tab 308 moves up the second closure ramp 275 onto the second closure ledge 294 in the anvil 250. The middle tabs 309 slide on the upper surface of elongate channel 210 and the foot 312 rides on the bottom surface 223 of the elongate channel 210. The first and second tabs 306, 308 on the first and second closure ledges 292, 294 as well as the middle tabs 309 and foot 312 serve to space the staple forming undersurface 254 of the anvil 250 at a desired spacing “S” from the upper surface or cartridge deck of the surgical staple cartridge. See FIG. 13.

[0179] As can be seen in FIG. 5, in the illustrated example, the end effector 200 is selectively articulatable about articulation axis B-B that is transverse to a shaft axis SA-SA that is defined by the elongate shaft assembly 100. In the illustrated arrangement, the closure tube assembly 120 includes a proximal closure tube shaft segment 123 that extends to the housing 20, 20′, 20″ and operably interfaces with the closure system supported therein. The proximal closure tube segment 123 is pivotally coupled to a distal closure tube segment 130. As can be seen in FIG. 6, for example, the proximal closure tube segment 123 includes upper and lower distally projecting tangs 124, 126. The distal closure tube segment 130 includes proximally projecting upper and lower tangs 132, 134. An upper double pivot link 140 includes upwardly projecting distal and proximal pivot pins 142, 144 that engage respectively an upper distal pin hole 133 in the upper proximally projecting tang 132 and an upper proximal pin hole 125 in the upper distally projecting tang 124. A lower double pivot link 150 includes downwardly projecting distal and proximal pivot pins 152, 154 that engage respectively a lower distal pin hole (not shown) in the proximally protruding tang 134 and the pin hole 127 in the distally protruding tang 126.

[0180] In the illustrated arrangement, as well as the alternative arrangements, the elongate shaft assembly 100 further includes a frame assembly or spine assembly or restraining assembly generally designated as 159. In one arrangement, for example, the frame assembly 159 includes a proximal frame portion 160 and a distal frame portion 170. The proximal frame portion 160 is configured to movably support the firing beam 310 therein and extends back to the housing 20, 20′, 20″, whichever the case may be. The proximal end (not shown) of the proximal frame portion 160 may operably interface with a corresponding control system that may facilitate rotation of the frame assembly 159 (and the end effector 200 coupled thereto) about the shaft axis SA-SA. Further details regarding the construction and operation of such control systems may be found in various references that have been incorporated by reference herein. As can be seen in FIG. 6, the distal frame portion 170 includes a pivot pin 172 that is rotatably received within a pivot aperture 220 defined in the proximal end 211 of the elongate channel 210. The pivot aperture 220 defines the articulation axis B-B about which the pivot pin 172 may pivot. Stated another way, the elongate channel 210 may pivot about the pivot pin 172 and around articulation axis B-B when an articulation motion is applied to the elongate channel 210. Still referring to FIG. 6, the proximal end 211 of the elongate channel 210 includes a drive pin 222 that is configured to be operably engaged with an articulation driver. The drive pin 222 is configured to receive a force applied thereto by an articulation driver system 500 and, depending on the direction in which the force is applied to the drive pin 222, causes the end effector 200 to articulate in a first direction “FD” or a second, opposite, direction “SD”.

[0181] The illustrated articulation driver system 500 may be similar to the articulation driver system disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541 which has been incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. In one form, for example, the articulation driver system 500 includes a proximal articulation driver 510 and a distal articulation driver 520. See FIG. 6. As discussed in the aforementioned incorporated reference, the proximal articulation driver 510 is supported for selective axial travel in the distal and proximal directions in response to articulation control motions applied thereto by an articulation control system. The articulation control system may, for example, be operably supported in the housing 20, 20′, 20″, whichever the case may be. When a drive or articulation control motion is transmitted to the proximal articulation driver 510, whether it is in the proximal direction or the distal direction, the drive force can be transmitted to the distal articulation driver 520 through an articulation lock 550, as was described in detail in the aforementioned incorporated reference. Further details regarding the operation of the distal articulation lock 550 may be gleaned from review of that reference and, for the sake of brevity, will not be repeated herein.

[0182] As discussed in further detail in the aforementioned incorporated reference, movement of the proximal articulation driver 510, whether it be proximal or distal, can unlock the articulation lock 550 that is operably supported in the distal articulation driver and the distal frame portion 170. In the arrangement depicted in FIG. 6, for example, the distal articulation driver 520 includes a distally-extending portion 522 that is pivotally coupled to an intermediate link 524 for relative pivotal travel about an intermediate axis IA-IA. See FIG. 6. Although not specifically shown in FIG. 6, the distally protruding portion 522 includes a downwardly extending proximal pin that is pivotally received within a proximal pivot hole in the intermediate link 524. The distal end of the intermediate link 524 includes a distal pivot hole 526 for receipt of the drive pin 222 therein. Actuation of the proximal articulation driver 510 will ultimately result in the articulation of the elongate channel 210 through the distal articulation driver and the articulation lock 550. For example, an initial proximal movement of the proximal articulation driver 510 can unlock the proximal movement of the distal articulation driver 520 and the articulation lock 550 while a further proximal movement of the proximal articulation driver 510 can drive the distal articulation driver 520 and the articulation lock 550 proximally. Similarly, an initial distal movement of the proximal articulation driver 510 can unlock the distal movement of the distal articulation driver 520 and the articulation lock 550 while a further distal movement of the proximal articulation driver 510 can drive the distal articulation driver 520 and the articulation lock 550 distally.

[0183] Still referring to FIG. 6, for example, the firing beam 310 may comprise a laminated structure. Such arrangement enables the firing beam 310 to sufficiently flex when the end effector 200 is articulated about the articulation axis B-B. The firing beam 310 is slidably supported in a firing bar slot 162 in the proximal frame portion 160. The distal end portion 164 of the proximal frame portion 160 is formed with two opposed radiused surfaces 166, 168 to provide added lateral support to the firing beam 310 during articulation.

[0184] End effectors that employ firing beams or firing members and which are capable of articulating over a range of, for example, forty five degrees have numerous challenges to overcome. To facilitate operable articulation of such end effectors, the firing member or firing beam must be sufficiently flexible to accommodate such range of articulation. However, the firing beam or firing member must also avoid buckling while encountering the compressive firing loads. To provide additional support to the firing beam or firing member various “support” or “blowout” plate arrangements have been developed. Several of such arrangements are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,964,363, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING ARTICULATION JOINT SUPPORT PLATES FOR SUPPORTING A FIRING BAR and U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,736, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING AN ELECTROACTIVE POLYMER ACTUATED FIRING BAR TRACK THROUGH AN ARTICULATION JOINT, the entire disclosures of each being hereby incorporated by reference herein. Blowout plates that provide substantial buckle resistance also are difficult to bend in general which adds to the forces the articulation joint system must accommodate.

[0185] FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a firing beam support assembly 600 in the form of a firing beam guide assembly 601 that is employed in the illustrated surgical instrument 10. As can be seen in those Figures, as well as in FIG. 6, the firing beam guide assembly 601 includes a proximal end 602 and a distal end 604 that are interconnected by firing beam support members 606, 608 that are separated by a firing beam slot 610 that extends through the proximal and distal ends 602, 604. In a plan view, the firing beam guide assembly 601 somewhat resembles an “I-beam” arrangement with a slot extending through the central web of the beam. As can be seen in FIG. 15, for example, the firing beam support member 606 is “plate-like” or comprises a plate that includes an inwardly extending upper lip 607 and the firing beam support member 608 is “plate-like” or comprises a plate that includes an inwardly extending upper lip 609. The upper lips 607, 609 provide some bending strength to the firing beam support members 606, 608 and may serve to prevent the firing beam 310 from popping out of the top of the firing beam guide assembly 601 during flexing of the firing beam 310. The firing beam guide assembly 601 may be fabricated from, for example, glass-filled ISOPLAST®, Nylon, glass-filled VECTRA®, etc. and be of integral construction. In other arrangements, the firing beam support members 606, 608 may comprise components that are distinct from the proximal and distal ends and are attached thereto by appropriate fastening techniques such as welding over-molding, etc.

[0186] As can be seen in FIG. 6, the proximal end 602 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 is received within a proximal beam cavity 169 formed in the distal end portion 164 of the proximal frame portion 160. The distal end 604 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 is received within a distal bar cavity 224 formed in an upstanding support lug 1700 formed in the proximal end 211 of the elongate channel 210. To facilitate some axial movement of the firing beam guide assembly 601 during articulation of the end effector 200, the proximal beam cavity 169 is sized relative to the proximal end portion 602 of the firing beam support assembly 600 to permit some axial movement of the proximal end portion 602 therein. Similarly, the distal beam cavity 224 may be sized relative to the distal end portion 604 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 to facilitate axial movement of the firing beam guide assembly 601 relative to the elongate channel 210 during articulation thereof. FIG. 17 illustrates the end effector 200 in an unarticulated position wherein the end effector 200 is essentially coaxial with the shaft assembly 100. This end effector position enables the end effector 200 and a portion of the elongated shaft assembly 100 to be inserted into the patient through a trocar, for example. FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate the end effector 200 articulated in a first direction “FD” and FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate the end effector 200 articulated in an opposite, second direction “SD”.

[0187] End effectors such as those disclosed herein as well as those end effectors disclosed in the previously incorporated U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541 are often employed when performing a lower anterior resection of the colon (“LAR”). LAR is a common surgery for rectal cancer and is occasionally performed to remove a diseased or ruptured portion of the intestine in cases of diverticulitis. The ability to access the target portion(s) of the colon with these end effectors during a LAR may be effected by the following factors: (i) the articulation angle of the shaft, (ii) the distance from the articulation pivot or axis and the proximal-most staples (sometimes referred to as the “proximal dead zone”), (iii) the distance from the distal-most staples and the distal end of the end effector (sometimes referred to as the “distal dead zone”), and (iv) the shaft diameter. FIG. 22 compares the range of motion within a pelvis contour of an end effector 200 as disclosed herein to the range of motion of an end effector 200′ of the type that includes an anvil that is pivotally coupled to the elongate channel by a kidney slot arrangement as disclosed in the aforementioned incorporated U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541. In one end effector arrangement 200′, for example, the proximal dead zone PDZ″ is approximately 1.54 inches long. Conversely, the proximal dead zone PDZ that may be attained in connection with at least one implementation of end effector 200 as disclosed herein may be reduced by, for example, 0.320 inches. See FIG. 23. Thus, PDZ <PDZ′. As can also be seen in that Figure, the distance from the distal end 201 of the end effector to the articulation axis A-A or pivot point is less than the distance from the distal end 201′ of the end effector 200′ to the articulation axis B-B or pivot point by an amount of approximately 0.9 inches (length “L” in FIG. 23) in at least one implementation, for example. Thus, the manipulability of end effector 200 presents a vast improvement of the manipulability of prior end effector arrangements. In addition, the end effector 200 enjoys a marked increase of mechanical advantage (as much as an increase of, for example, 300% in some cases) by moving the pivot or articulation axis more proximally and the closure member or fulcrum more distally. Such improvement of access will allow, for example, a 60 mm endocutter to get almost 90 degrees to the colon creating a significantly better perpendicular transection that may minimize its effects of the subsequent circular stapler firing and therefore reduce the likelihood of leaks. By reducing the distance from the articulation joint to the first or proximal-most staple will allow the endocutter to be rotated more with respect to the pelvic girdle increasing its effective access angle with respect to the colon for “deep” LARs. Additional moving from cam-channel to cam-tube architecture improves the mechanical advantage of the system and thereby reduces the loads transmitted back to the handle or housing and increases instrument robustness.

[0188] FIGS. 24-31 illustrate another surgical instrument 1010 that includes an end effector 1200 that is operably attached to an elongate shaft assembly 1100. The elongate shaft assembly 1100 may be operably coupled to any of the housings 20, 20′, 20″ as discussed above. The end effector 1200 is pivotally connected to the elongate shaft assembly 1100 at articulation joint 1109. The end effector 1200 includes, among other things, an elongate channel 1210 that is configured to operably support a staple cartridge 1230 therein. See FIG. 25. The staple cartridge 1230 includes a cartridge body 1232 that has a centrally-disposed, elongate cartridge slot 1234 therein. In the illustrated arrangement, the staple cartridge 1230 has three rows 1238 of staple pockets 1236 on each side of the elongate slot 1234. One or more staples 1242 are supported on corresponding staple drivers 1240 that are movably supported in the staple pockets 1236. A cartridge pan 1215 is attached to the bottom of the cartridge body 1232. The cartridge pan 1215 includes a pan slot 1217 that is aligned with the cartridge slot 1234 and a channel slot 1212 in the elongate channel 1210.

[0189] The surgical instrument 1010 further includes a firing member 1300 that is attached to a firing beam 1310 that interfaces with a firing system supported in the housing 20, 20′ or 20″. The firing system may be powered by a motor arrangement supported in the handle 20 (FIG. 1) or it may be manually operated by actuating a firing trigger 26′ (FIG. 2) or it may be powered by the robotic system 13 (FIG. 4). Whichever arrangement is employed, upon actuation, the firing system will apply an axial firing motion to the firing beam 1310 to drive the firing member 1300 in the distal direction “DD”. As can be seen in FIG. 25, the firing member 1300 includes a vertically-extending firing member body 1302 that has a tissue cutting surface or blade 1304 thereon. A first firing member tab 1306 protrudes from a first lateral side 1305 of the firing member body 1302 and a second firing member tab 1308 protrudes from a second lateral side 1307 of the firing member body 1302. In additional a first middle tab (not shown) protrudes from the first lateral side 1305 of the firing member body 1302 and a second middle tab 1309 protrudes from the second lateral side 1307 of the firing member body 1302. The firing member 1300 further includes a tab or foot 1312 that protrudes laterally from the bottom of the firing member body 1302. The purpose of the tabs 1306, 1308, 1309 and foot 1312 will be discussed in further detail below. In addition, a wedge sled 1320 may be mounted within the cartridge body 1232 for driving contact with the firing member 1300. As the firing member 1300 is driven distally through the cartridge body 1232, the wedge surfaces 1322 contact the staple drivers 1240 to drive the drivers 1240 and the surgical staples 1242 supported thereon upwardly in the cartridge body 1232 as is known.

[0190] The end effector 1200 further includes an anvil 1250 that includes an anvil body 1252 that has a staple forming undersurface 1254 thereon. The anvil 1250 also includes an anvil mounting portion 1260 for pivotally coupling the anvil 1250 to the proximal end portion 1211 of the elongate channel 1210 for pivotal travel relative thereto. The anvil mounting portion 1260 includes two (only one can be seen in FIGS. 25-28) laterally-extending anvil trunnions 1264. The anvil trunnions 1264 are movably received within corresponding kidney slots 1214 that are provided in the proximal end portion 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. Such arrangement enables the anvil 1250 to pivot relative to the elongate channel 1210 upon application of closing and opening motions to the anvil mounting portion 1260. The anvil mounting portion 1260 includes an upstanding anvil tab 1263 that operably interacts with a horseshoe-shaped opening 1131 provided in a closure member 1110.

[0191] In the illustrated example, the closure member 1110 comprises a closure tube assembly 1120 that includes a distal closure tube segment 1130 in which the opening 1131 is provided. The closure tube assembly 1120 includes a proximal closure tube shaft segment 1122 that extends to the housing 20, 20′, 20″ and operably interfaces with the closure system supported therein. The proximal closure tube segment 1123 is pivotally coupled to the distal closure tube segment 1130. As can be seen in FIG. 25, for example, the proximal closure tube segment 1123 includes upper and lower distally projecting tangs 1124, 1126. The distal closure tube segment 1130 includes proximally projecting upper and lower tangs 1132, 1134. An upper double pivot link 1140 includes upwardly projecting distal and proximal pivot pins 1142, 1144 that engage respectively an upper distal pin hole 1133 in the upper proximally projecting tang 1132 and an upper proximal pin hole 1125 in the upper distally projecting tang 1124. A lower double pivot link 1150 includes downwardly projecting distal and proximal pivot pins 1152, 1154 that engage respectively a lower distal pin hole (not shown) in the proximally protruding tang 1134 and the pin hole 1127 in the distally protruding tang 1126. Movement of the distal closure tube 1130 in the distal direction “DD” will cause the anvil 1250 to pivot to a closed position relative to the surgical staple cartridge 1230 by virtue of the interaction between the opening 1131 in the distal closure tube 1130 and the anvil tab 1263 and movement of the distal closure tube 1130 in the proximal direction “PD” will pivot the anvil 1250 to an open position by virtue of the central tab 1137 in the distal closure tube segment 1130. Movement of the distal closure tube segment 1130 is controlled by a closure system that may be powered by a motor arrangement supported in the handle 20 or it may be manually operated by actuating a closure trigger 28′ (FIG. 2) or it may be powered by the robotic system 13 (FIG. 4).

[0192] The anvil 1250 may further have an anvil slot and closure ledges as was discussed above with respect to anvil 250 for interaction with the tabs 1306, 1308 as was also described above in detail. Once the anvil 1250 is moved into the fully closed position, the firing system may be actuated to axially drive the firing member 1300 from the unactuated or starting position distally through the staple cartridge 1230 to cut tissue clamped between the staple forming undersurface 1254 of the anvil 1250 and the staple cartridge 1230. As the firing member 1300 moves distally, the first tab 1306 movably engages the first closure ledge and the second tab 1308 movably engages the second closure ledge in the anvil 1250. The middle tabs 1309 slide on the upper surface of elongate channel 1210 and the foot 1312 rides on the bottom surface 1223 of the elongate channel 1210. The first and second tabs 1306, 1308 on the first and second closure ledges as well as the middle tabs 1309 and foot 1312 serve to space the staple forming undersurface 1254 of the anvil 2150 at a desired spacing from the upper surface or cartridge deck of the surgical staple cartridge 1230.

[0193] As can be seen in FIGS. 24-26, in the illustrated example, the end effector 1200 is selectively articulatable about articulation axis B-B that is transverse to a shaft axis SA-SA that is defined by the elongate shaft assembly 1100. In the illustrated arrangement, the elongate shaft assembly 1100 further includes a frame assembly or spine assembly or restraining assembly generally designated as 1159. In one arrangement, for example, the frame assembly 1159 includes a proximal frame portion 1160 and a distal frame portion 1170. The proximal frame portion 1160 is configured to movably support the firing beam 1310 therein and extends back to the housing 20, 20′, 20″, whichever the case may be. The proximal end (not shown) of the proximal frame portion 1160 may operably interface with a corresponding control system that may facilitate rotation of the frame assembly 1159 (and the end effector 1200 coupled thereto) about the shaft axis SA-SA. Further details regarding the construction and operation of such control systems may be found in various references that have been incorporated by reference herein.

[0194] As can be seen in FIG. 25, the distal frame portion 1170 includes a pivot pin 1172 that is rotatably received within a pivot aperture 1220 defined in the proximal end 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. The pivot aperture 1120 defines the articulation axis B-B about which the pivot pin 1172 may pivot. Stated another way, the elongate channel 1210 may pivot about the pivot pin 1172 and around articulation axis B-B when an articulation motion is applied to the elongate channel 1210. Still referring to FIG. 25, the proximal end 1211 of the elongate channel 1210 includes a drive pin 1222 that is configured to be operably engaged with an articulation driver. The drive pin 1222 is configured to receive a force applied thereto by an articulation driver system 1500 and, depending on the direction in which the force is applied to the drive pin 1222, causes the end effector 1200 to articulate in a first direction or a second, opposite, direction about articulation axis B-B.

[0195] The illustrated articulation driver system 1500 may be similar to the articulation driver system disclosed in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263541, which has been incorporated by reference in its entirety herein. In one form, for example, the articulation driver system 1500 includes a proximal articulation driver 1510 and a distal articulation driver 1520. As discussed in the aforementioned incorporated reference, the proximal articulation driver 1510 is supported for selective axial travel in the distal and proximal directions in response to articulation control motions applied thereto by an articulation control system. The articulation control system may, for example, be operably supported in the housing 20, 20′, 20″, whichever the case may be. When a drive or articulation control motion is transmitted to the proximal articulation driver 1510, whether it is in the proximal direction or the distal direction, the drive force can be transmitted to the distal articulation driver 1520 through an articulation lock 1550, as was described in detail in the aforementioned incorporated reference. Further details regarding the operation of the distal articulation lock 1550 may be gleaned from review of that reference and, for the sake of brevity, will not be repeated herein.

[0196] As discussed in further detail in the aforementioned incorporated reference, movement of the proximal articulation driver 1510, whether it be proximal or distal, can unlock the articulation lock 1550 that is operably supported in the distal articulation driver and the distal frame portion 1170. In the arrangement depicted in FIG. 25, for example, an intermediate link 1524 is pivotally coupled to the distal articulation driver 1520 for relative pivotal travel about an intermediate axis IA-IA. As can be seen in FIG. 25, a pivot pin 1523 is formed in the distal articulation driver 1520 and extends into a proximal pivot hole 1525 in the intermediate link 1524. The distal end of the intermediate link 1524 includes a distal pivot hole 1526 for receipt of the drive pin 1222 therein. Actuation of the proximal articulation driver 1510 will ultimately result in the articulation of the elongate channel 1210 through the distal articulation driver and the articulation lock 1550. For example, an initial proximal movement of the proximal articulation driver 1510 can unlock the proximal movement of the distal articulation driver 1520 and the articulation lock 1550 while a further proximal movement of the proximal articulation driver 1510 can drive the distal articulation driver 1520 and the articulation lock 1550 proximally. Similarly, an initial distal movement of the proximal articulation driver 1510 can unlock the distal movement of the distal articulation driver 1520 and the articulation lock 1550 while a further distal movement of the proximal articulation driver 1510 can drive the distal articulation driver 1520 and the articulation lock 1550 distally.

[0197] In arrangements that employ conventional blowout plates to provide buckle support to the firing beam, depending on the path of curvature (due to the articulation direction) only one of the blowout plates may effectively be doing any work. Thus, it may be advantageous in at least some applications to tie or couple the inside and outside blowout plates (or “firing beam support members”) together which would allow them to act as a couple rather than independently from each other. Such arrangement may, for example, provide more than double the moment of inertia of the outside plate alone, while still minimizing the overall force to bend. In some arrangements, as will be described in further detail below, the blowout plates (or firing beam support members) are configured such that they may move longitudinally with respect to each other. Because neither member is on the centerline of the bend, for example, one of the members has a longer path and the other member has a shorter path.

[0198] In the illustrated example, the surgical instrument 1010 further includes a first firing beam support member 1610 and a second firing beam support member 1620. The first and second firing beam support members 1610, 1620 may each comprise a plate that is fabricated from, for example, stainless steel, spring steel, titanium, NITINOL™, etc. As can be seen in FIG. 25 the first firing beam support member 1610 includes a proximal downwardly extending mounting tab 1612 and a distal downwardly extending mounting tab 1614. The second firing beam support member 1620 includes similar proximal and distal downwardly extending tabs (not viewable in FIG. 25). As can be seen in FIG. 26, the firing beam 1310 slidably extends between the first and second firing beam support members 1610, 1620. The distal ends of the first and second firing beam support members 1610, 1620 are slidably received within a slot 1702 formed in an upstanding support lug 1700 formed on the proximal end 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. FIGS. 27 and 30 illustrate articulation of the end effector 1200 in a first direction “FD”. As can be seen in those Figures, the first firing beam support member 1610 moves slightly distal with respect to the second firing beam support member 1620 to provide bending support to the firing beam 1310 during articulation. The mounting tabs may serve to limit the degree of axial movement of the firing beam support members. FIGS. 28 and 31 illustrate articulation of the end effector 1200 in a second direction “SD”. As can be seen in those Figures, the second firing beam support member 1620 moves slightly distal with respect to the first firing beam support member 1610 to provide bending or buckling support to the firing beam 1310 during articulation. As illustrated in FIGS. 30 and 31, such arrangement permits articulation of the end effector 1200 through ranges of approximately seventy five degrees (75°) to both sides of the shaft axis SA-SA. In at least one arrangement, the slot 1702 is sized to provide clearance between the firing beam support members 1610, 1610 and the firing beam 1310 of approximately 0.05″-0.015″ for example, to facilitate sliding travel of the firing beam support members 1610, 1620 within the slot 1702 and slidable travel of the firing beam 1310 during firing of the instrument (i.e., axial advancement in the distal direction of the firing beam 1310). In one arrangement, for example, the slot 1702 may be 0.05″-0.065″wide (“W”), firing beam support members 1610, 1620 may each have a thickness of approximately 0.008″-0.015″ (“FBT”) and the firing beam 1310 may have a beam thickness of approximately 0.045″ (“BT”). See FIG. 32. As can be seen in FIG. 33, the proximal end 1704 of the slot 1702 flares outward to facilitate bending or flexing of the firing beam support members 1610, 1620 during articulation of the end effector 1200. The proximal end 1704 of the slot 1702 has a proximal slot width “PW” of approximately 0.07″-0.08″, for example. Other slot widths may also be employed. As such, in the illustrated example PT >PW. It will be understood that the firing beam support members 1610 and 1620 help to support the firing beam 1310 during articulation of the end effector and serve to prevent the firing beam 1310 from bucking under the compressive firing loads.

[0199] FIG. 34 illustrates a portion of another elongate channel 1210′ that includes an upstanding support lug 1700′ with a slot 1702′ therein for slidably receiving the firing beam support members 1610, 1620 (not shown in FIG. 34) in the manner described above. In this arrangement, however, a pair of opposed protrusions or detents 1706′ is formed in the support lug 1700′ such that the width of the proximal end of the slot 1702 (“PW”) is less than the width of the slot 1702 (“W”) as shown. The distal exit of 1620 from 1160 is preferably tighter than the retaining slot which holds the “L” portion of the beam. This “tightening” serves to make the support plates behave like cantilever beams rather than floating pivot joints and can significantly increase the firing beam support that the plate provides to the firing beam. For example, comparing the cantilever arrangement to a “pivot” arrangement (loose fit), the cantilever arrangement is expected to provide a 4×-16× better resistance which results in much lower deflection of the support plate right at the start.

[0200] Referring now to FIGS. 35-37, the surgical instrument 1010′ shown therein is substantially identical to surgical instrument 1010 described in detail above and employs firing beam support members 1610′ and 1620′ to provide bucking support to the firing beam 1310 during articulation of end effector 1200. FIGS. 35 and 36 illustrate the positions of the firing beam support members 1610′, 1620′ when the end effector is in an unarticulated position. FIG. 37 illustrates the end effector 1200 in an articulated position. As can be seen in that Figure, the firing beam support members 1610′, 1620′ move longitudinally with respect to each other during articulation. More specifically, as shown in that Figure, for example, the firing beam support member 1610′ on the short curve side

[0201] FIGS. 38-40 illustrate another surgical instrument 2010 that may be, for example, identical to surgical instrument 1010 except for at least some of the differences discussed below. For example, surgical instrument 2010 employs a firing beam support assembly, generally designated as 2600 that comprises a first firing beam support member 2610 and a second firing beam support member 2620. The firing beam support members 2610, 2620 each comprise a compression band arrangement that laterally supports the firing beam 1310 during articulation while also facilitating axial movement of the firing beam 1310 therebetween during firing and retraction strokes thereof. More particularly, in one arrangement, the first firing beam support member 2610 comprises a first compression band 2612 that may comprise, for example, a band-like member fabricated from spring steel or similar material. As can be seen in FIGS. 38-40, the first compression band 2612 includes a first proximal mounting member 2614 in the form of a first proximal mounting tab 2615 that is configured to be received within a mounting slot 1162 in the proximal frame portion 1160. In addition, the first proximal compression band 2612 further includes a first distal mounting member 2616 in the form of a first distal mounting tab 2617 that is configured to be received within a first distal mounting slot 1710 in the upstanding support lug 1700 formed on the proximal end 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. As can be most particularly seen in FIG. 39, the first distal mounting slot 1710 has a first slot width “FSW” that is greater than the thickness of the first distal mounting tab 2617 to facilitate axial movement of the first distal mounting tab 2617 within the first distal mounting slot 1710. In addition, the first compression band 2612 includes a first spring portion or fold 2618 that is mountingly received within a first elongate cavity 1166 in the proximal frame portion 1160.

[0202] As can be further seen in FIG. 39, the second firing beam support member 2620 comprises a second compression band 2622 that may comprise, for example, a band-like member fabricated from spring steel or similar material. The second compression band 2622 includes a second proximal mounting member 2624 in the form of a second proximal mounting tab 2625 that is configured to be received within a mounting slot 1164 in the proximal frame portion 1160. In addition, the second proximal compression band 2622 further includes a second distal mounting member 2626 in the form of a second distal mounting tab 2627 that is configured to be received within a second distal mounting slot 1712 in the other upstanding support lug 1700 formed on the proximal end 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. As can be most particularly seen in FIG. 39, the second distal mounting slot 1712 has a second slot width “SSW” that is greater than the thickness of the second distal mounting tab 2627 to facilitate axial movement of the second distal mounting tab 2627 within the second distal mounting slot 1712. In addition, the second compression band 2622 includes a second spring portion or fold 2628 that is mountingly received within a second elongate cavity 1168 in the proximal frame portion 1160. As can also be seen in FIGS. 38-40, in the illustrated embodiment, the distal end 1161 of the proximal frame portion 1160 has opposed radiused surfaces 1163, 1165 that are configured to laterally support the firing beam support members 2610, 2620 during articulation of the end effector 1200.

[0203] FIG. 39 illustrates the positions of the first and second compression bands 2610, 2620 when the end effector 1200 is in an unarticulated position. When in that position, the first and second compression bands 2610, 2620 apply opposing compression forces “CF” to the opposite lateral sides of the flexible firing beam 1310 while permitting axial travel of the firing beam 1310 during firing and retraction strokes. When in that unarticulated position, each of the first and second compression bands 2610, 2620 have a first unarticulated length “CL1”, “CL2”, respectively. FIG. 40 illustrates the positions of the first and second compression bands 2610, 2620 when the end effector 1200 has been articulated in one articulation direction. As can be seen in that Figure, the first compression band 2610 has elongated (CL3>CL1) and the second compression band 2620 has been compressed (CL4<CL2). The spring portions 2618 and 2628 facilitate the elongation and compression of the compression bands 6210, 2620 during articulation while also maintaining the lateral compression forces on the firing beam 1310 to thereby prevent bucking of the firing beam 1310 as it is axially moved therebetween.

[0204] FIGS. 41-45 illustrate another surgical instrument 2010 that may be, for example, identical to surgical instrument 1010 except for at least some of the differences discussed below. For example, surgical instrument 2010 employs a firing beam support assembly, generally designated as 2700 that comprises a first firing beam support member 2710 and a second firing beam support member 2720. The firing beam support members 2710, 2720 each comprise a compression band arrangement that laterally supports the firing beam 1310 during articulation while also facilitating axial movement of the firing beam 1310 therebetween during firing and retraction strokes thereof. More particularly, in one arrangement the first firing beam support member 2710 comprises a first compression band 2712 that may comprise, for example, a band-like member fabricated from spring steel or similar material. As can be seen in FIG. 42, the first compression band 2712 includes a first proximal mounting member 2714 in the form of a first proximal mounting tab 2715 that is configured to be received within a first mounting slot 1162 in the proximal frame portion 1160. In addition, the first proximal compression band 2712 further includes a first distal mounting member 2716 in the form of a first distal mounting tab 2717 that is configured to be received within a first distal mounting slot 1710 in the upstanding support lug 1700 formed on the proximal end portion 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. As can be most particularly seen in FIG. 44, the mounting slot 1162 in the proximal frame portion 1160 has a first slot width “FSW” that is greater than the thickness of the first proximal mounting tab 2715 to facilitate axial movement of the first distal mounting tab 2715 within the first proximal mounting slot 1162.

[0205] As can be further seen in FIG. 44, the second firing beam support member 2720 comprises a second compression band 2722 that may comprise, for example, a band-like member fabricated from spring steel or similar material. The second compression band 2722 includes a second proximal mounting member 2724 in the form of a second proximal mounting tab 2725 that is configured to be received within a mounting slot 1164 in the proximal frame portion 1160. In addition, the second proximal compression band 2722 further includes a second distal mounting member 2726 in the form of a second distal mounting tab 2727 that is configured to be received within a second distal mounting slot 1712 in the other upstanding support lug 1700 formed on the proximal end portion 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. As can be most particularly seen in FIG. 44, the second proximal mounting slot 1164 has a second slot width “SSW” that is greater than the thickness of the second proximal mounting tab 2725 to facilitate axial movement of the second proximal mounting tab 2725 within the second proximal mounting slot 1164. As can also be seen in FIGS. 41, 42 and 44, in the illustrated embodiment, the distal end 1161 of the proximal frame portion 1160 has opposed radiused surfaces 1163, 1165 that are configured to laterally support the firing beam support members 2710, 2720 during articulation of the end effector 1200.

[0206] Still referring to FIGS. 41-45, the surgical instrument 2010 further comprises a movable firing beam support assembly 2800 that is configured to provide support to the compression bands 2712, 2722 during articulation of the end effector 1200. In the illustrated arrangement, the movable firing beam support assembly 2800 comprises a support boss assembly 2810 that is rotatably and laterally movable relative to a centrally disposed boss axis or support axis BA that is transverse to the shaft axis SA-SA and parallel to the articulation axis B-B. Referring now to FIG. 42, a support boss pin 1224 protrudes upwardly from the distal end portion 1211 of the elongate channel 1210. In the illustrated arrangement, the support boss pin 1224 is concentrically located with respect to the pivot pin 1172 such that the boss axis BA is coaxial with the articulation axis B-B. In one arrangement, for example, the support boss pin 1224 is integrally formed with the pivot pin 1172.

[0207] As can be further seen in FIG. 42, in the illustrated arrangement, the support boss assembly 2810 includes a body portion 2812 that includes a first support boss 2820 that is spaced from a second support boss 2830. The first support boss 2820 includes a first arcuate support surface 2822 and the second support boss 2830 includes a second arcuate support surface 2832. The first arcuate support surface 2822 is spaced from the second arcuate support surface 2832 by a slot 2834 is sufficiently wide enough to receive the first firing beam support member 2710 and the second firing beam support member 2720 and the firing beam 1310 to pass therebetween while the first arcuate support surface remains in tangential movable contact with the first firing beam support member 2710 and the second arcuate support surface 2832 remains in tangential movable contact with the second firing beam support member 2720 during articulation of the end effector 1200. In addition, to facilitate such contact between the first arcuate support surface 2822 and the first firing beam support member 2710 and the second arcuate support surface 2832 and the second firing beam support member 2720 during articulation of the end effector 1200, the support boss assembly 2810 is configured to not only rotate about the boss axis BA-BA but to also move laterally relative to the boss axis BA-BA. For example, in the illustrated arrangement, a mounting cavity 2814 is formed in the body portion 2812 to movably receive the support boss pin 1224 therein. See FIG. 43. Such lateral movement of the support boss assembly 2810 during articulation is illustrated, for example, in FIG. 45 wherein the position of the support boss pin 1224 is shown in phantom lines in the mounting cavity 2814 (also shown in phantom lines). Such arrangement enables the support boss assembly 2810 to move in lateral directions, for example, that are transverse to the shaft axis SA-SA. FIG. 45 illustrates articulation of the end effector 1200 about the articulation axis (not shown) in a first direction “FD”. As can be seen in that Figure, in addition to lateral movement and rotation of the support boss assembly 2800 so as to provide lateral (anti-buckling) support to the firing beam support members 2710, 2720 as well as the firing beam 1310, it can be observed that the first proximal mounting tab 2715 has moved axially relative to the second proximal mounting tab 2725 within their respective mounting slots 1164, 1162. Such arrangement therefore provides effective anti-buckling support to the firing beam 1310 during articulation of the end effector 1200 while enabling the firing beam 1310 to move axially during firing and retraction strokes. While the firing beam support assembly 2800 is well-suited for use in connection with the firing beam support members and/or compression plate arrangements of the various types disclosed herein, it will also be appreciated that the firing beam support assembly 2800 may be effectively employed with surgical instruments that do not include such structures. In these alternative arrangements, for example, the firing beam support assembly is configured to provide support directly to the firing beam itself as it is articulated about the articulation joint.

[0208] FIGS. 46-48 illustrate another surgical instrument 2010 that may be, for example, identical to surgical instrument 1010 except for at least some of the differences discussed below. For example, surgical instrument 2010 employs a firing beam support assembly, generally designated as 2900 that comprises a plurality of movable firing beam support members 2910 that are movably journaled on a portion of the firing beam 1310. For the purpose of illustration, the proximal-most movable firing beam support member has been designed as 2910P and the distal-most movable firing beam support member has been designated 2910D. In the illustrated arrangement, each of the movable firing beam support members 2910 has the same shape and configuration. As can be most particularly seen in FIG. 47, for example, each movable firing beam support member 2910 includes a first support boss 2912 that is spaced from a second support boss 2914. The first support boss 2912 includes a first arcuate support surface 2916 and the second support boss 2914 includes a second arcuate support surface 2918. In the illustrated embodiment, for example, each of the first and second support bosses 2912, 2914 have a circular cross-sectional shape. The first arcuate support surface 2916 is spaced from the second arcuate support surface 2918 by a slot 2919 that is sufficiently wide enough to receive the firing beam 1310 therebetween while the first arcuate support surface 2916 remains in tangential movable contact with a lateral side portion of the firing beam 1310 and the second arcuate support surface 2918 remains in tangential movable contact with the other lateral side portion of the firing beam support member 1310 during articulation of the end effector 1200. It will be understood that the first and second support bosses 2912, 2914 prevent buckling of the firing beam 1310 during articulation and actuation of the firing beam 1310.

[0209] As can also be seen in FIGS. 46-48, each of the movable firing beam support members 2910 have opposed arcuate rocker surfaces 2920 that define a central contact area or rocker point 2922. FIG. 48 illustrates the positions of the movable firing beam support members 2910 during articulation of the end effector 1200. As can be seen in that Figure, the movable firing beam support members 2910 pivot relative to each other while remaining in contact with each other to support the firing beam 1310 and prevent buckling thereof during articulation and operation thereof. As shown in FIG. 48, the distal end 1161 of the proximal frame portion 1160 has opposed radiused surfaces 1163, 1165 which serve to support portions of the proximal-most movable firing beam support member 2910P during articulation. Likewise, each of the upstanding support lugs 1700 include an arcuate or dished surface 1701 for receiving a portion of the distal-most movable firing beam support member 2910D therein during articulation.

[0210] FIGS. 49-51 illustrate use of tension members 2930 to provide support to the movable firing beam support members 2910 and to maintain the rocker surfaces 2920 of adjacent movable firing beam support members 2910 in pivotal contact with each other. In one example, two tension members 2930 are employed and may each comprise a cable or wire member that has a distal end 2932 that is anchored into the upstanding support lug 1700. The proximal end (not shown) of each tension member 2930 may be located within the handle or housing and movably supported therein. FIG. 51 illustrates articulation of the end effector 1200 with the tension members 2930 retaining the adjacent movable firing beam support members 2910 in contact with each other to thereby provide an arcuate support structure for preventing buckling of the firing beam 1310 during actuation thereof. FIG. 52 illustrates a firing beam support assembly 2900 that can be used in connection with an articulatable end effector that is attached to the elongated shaft by a flexible joint arrangement of the type disclosed in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,213,736 entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT INCORPORATING AN ELECTROACTIVE POLYMER ACTUATED FIRING BAR TRACK THROUGH AN ARTICULATION JOINT, which has been herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. In this arrangement, for example, the end effector 1200 may be articulated by applying an articulation motion to one of the tension members 2930 depending upon the desired direction of articulation. More specifically, referring to FIG. 52, to cause the end effector to articulate in a first direction “FD”, an articulation motion in the form of a first tension force “FTF” is applied to the first tension member 2931. The first tension force “FTF” may be applied to the first tension member 2931 by an actuator arrangement (not shown) in the handle or housing configured to pull the first tension member 2931 in the proximal direction “PD”. Similarly, to cause the end effector to articulate in a second direction “SD”, an articulation motion in the form of a second tension force “STF” is applied to the second tension member 2933. The second tension force “STF” may be applied to the second tension member 2933 by an actuator arrangement (not shown) in the handle or housing that is configured to pull the second tension member 2933 in the proximal direction “PD”.

[0211] When the end effector is articulated, a certain amount of stress is introduced into the articulation drive mechanism which may make the firing beams significantly more easy to buckle and thereby potentially reduce the loads that can be transmitted thereby. Various firing beam support assemblies disclosed herein address such problems. FIGS. 53-58 illustrate another surgical instrument 3010 that may be, for example, identical to surgical instrument 10 except for at least some of the differences discussed below. For example, surgical instrument 3010 employs a dynamic firing beam support assembly, generally designated as 3100, that is used on connection with the firing beam support assembly 600 as was described in detail hereinabove. As described above, the firing beam guide assembly 601 includes a proximal end 602 and a distal end 604 that are interconnected by firing beam support members 606, 608 that are separated by a firing beam slot 610 that extends through the proximal and distal ends 602, 604. The proximal end 602 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 is received within a proximal beam cavity 169 formed in the distal end portion 164 of the proximal frame portion 160. The distal end 604 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 is received within a distal bar cavity 224 formed in an upstanding support lug 1700 formed in the proximal end portion 211 of the elongate channel 210. To facilitate some axial movement of the firing beam guide assembly 601 during articulation of the end effector 200, the proximal beam cavity 169 is sized relative to the proximal end portion 602 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 to permit some axial movement of the proximal end portion 602 therein. Similarly, the distal beam cavity 224 may be sized relative to the distal end portion 604 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 to facilitate axial movement of the firing beam guide assembly 601 relative to the elongate channel 210 during articulation thereof.

[0212] Referring now to FIG. 54, in the illustrated example, the dynamic or “movable” firing beam support assembly 3100 comprises a support base 3102 that is movably journaled on an upstanding pivot pin 174 formed on the frame assembly 159. More specifically, the pivot pin 174 is rotatably received within a pivot hole 3104 in the support base 3102 such that pivot pin 174 extends upwardly therethrough. The support base 3102 is movable about a base axis A1-A1 defined by the pivot pin 174. In addition, the support base 3102 includes an elongate slot 3106 that is sized to movably receive a blowout base guide pin 1708 that is formed on the proximal end portion or mounting member 211 of elongate channel 210. See FIG. 55. In addition, the dynamic beam support assembly 3100 includes a first movable support or pin guide 3110 and a second movable support or pin guide 3120. The first and second movable pin guides 3110, 3120 can move independently relative to each other and relative to the support base 3102 about a guide axis GA-GA defined by a pivot hole 3108 in the support base 3102. As can be seen in FIG. 54, for example, the first movable pin guide 3110 comprises a first pin guide base 3112 that has a first upstanding support member or pin 3114 and a second upstanding support member or pin 3116 protruding therefrom. Similarly, the second movable pin guide 3120 comprises a second pin guide base 3122 that has a primary upstanding support member or pin 3124 and a secondary upstanding support member or pin 3126. The second pin guide base 3122 includes a mounting pin 3125 that extends through a mounting hole 3113 in the first pin guide base 3112 and is received within a base mounting hole 3108 in the support base 3102.

[0213] In the illustrated example, the first support member or pin 3114 and the primary support member or pin 3124 are configured to movably contact the first side plate 606 of the firing beam guide assembly 601 depending upon the direction in which the end effector is articulated. Similarly, the second support member or pin 3116 and the secondary support member or pin 3126 are configured to movable contact the second side plate 608 depending upon the direction of articulation. The first and primary pins 3114, 124 may slidably contact the first side plate 606 and the second and secondary pins 3116, 3126 may slidably contact the second side plate 608 when the end effector is in an unarticulated (axially aligned with the shaft axis SA-SA). Such arrangement serves to support the firing beam before and during articulation. In alternative examples, the movable firing beam support assembly 3100 may be used without a firing beam guide assembly 601 or firing beam support plates, etc. In such arrangements, for example, the first and primary pins 3114, 3124 may directly contact a first lateral side portion of the firing beam and the second and secondary pins 3116, 3126 may directly contact a second lateral side portion of the firing beam to provide anti-buckling support directly to the firing beam.

[0214] FIGS. 59-63 illustrate another surgical instrument 3010′ that may be, for example, identical to surgical instrument 3010 except for at least some of the differences discussed below. For example, the dynamic or “movable” firing beam support assembly 3100′ only includes two upstanding support pins 3114′ and 3116′. The support base 3102′ is substantially similar to the base 3102 except that the upstanding pins 3114′ and 3116′ are attached directly to the base 3102′ and move therewith.

[0215] The dynamic or movable firing beam support assembly 3100 and 3100′ offer several advantages over prior arrangements. For example, such structure relates the angle of articulation to the amount of lateral support that is supplied to the firing beam. This dynamic version of the active support not only pivots with the articulation of the distal and proximal channel retainer, it also pivots the support elements (movable pins) themselves with respect to the support plates varying the unsupported lengths with respect to the articulation angle. The changes in support plate resilience could be tuned with a dynamic analysis to provide more support when fully articulated or more support when straight or whatever is desired. Traditional support plate and blow-out plate designs cannot adjust at all and provide the same support anywhere in the articulation span. This dynamically changing support structure can be configured to support the system when it is at its weakest while also not over compensating when it is at is strongest. Self locking, the pivoting structures will only pivot until they are loaded at which point they will bind and provide support. Such arrangements are relatively easy to manufacture and assemble. “Dynamically changing” means that it can vary the unsupported section in relation to the risk of buckling. The dynamic arrangement may be effectively employed in connection with various support member configurations disclosed herein.

[0216] The idea behind active support is to allow the angle of articulation to be related to the amount of support that is supplied to the firing beam and the firing beam support member. This may be done by creating a couple that provides a shorter unsupported zone the more likely the beams are to buckle (i.e., their higher articulation angle). The movable configurations of dynamic arrangements disclosed herein provide support to the distal and proximal channel retainers and allow the support assembly to pivot and slide with respect to them. Such arrangement provides support to the outside articulation support plate when it most needs the shorter unsupported zone. Another feature is that the right and left support plates are also linked together by the linkage itself further increasing the buckle resistance since both the inside and outside support plates would both have to buckle in order for the system to fail.

[0217] FIGS. 64-71 illustrate various firing beam support assemblies that may be used with various surgical instrument examples disclosed herein. FIG. 64 is a perspective view of a firing beam support assembly 600 that was described in detail above. FIGS. 65 and 66 illustrate a firing beam support assembly 2700′ that is similar to the firing beam support assembly 2700 described above except for at least some of the differences discussed below. For example, the first and second compression bands 2712′ 2722′ are loosely coupled together by proximal and distal couplers 2730, 2740 that facilitate axial movement of the compression bands 2712′, 2722′ relative to each other while maintaining the compression bands 2712′, 2722′ in compressive contact with the firing beam 1310 in the manners described in detail herein. The proximal and distal couplers 2730, 2740 may extend completely around the compression bands 2712′, 2722′. To facilitate relative axial movement of the bands 2712′, 2722′, the proximal coupler 2730 is received within proximal top and bottom notches 2732, 2734 in each of the compression bands 2712′, 2722′ and the distal coupler 2740 is received within distal top and bottom notches in each of the compression bands 2712′, 2722′ as shown. FIG. 68 illustrate another firing beam support assembly 2700″ that is identical to the firing beam support assembly 2700′ except that the couplers 2730′ and 2740′ do not extend completely around both of the compression bands 2712′, 2722′. In both arrangements, the proximal and distal couplers enable the compression plates to move axially relative to each other while preventing or at least limiting the lateral movement away from each other in directions that are transverse to the shaft axis. Thus, such arrangement retains the compression plates in contact with the firing beam during articulation of the end effector. It will also be understood that the axial length of the notches essentially defines the amount of relative axial travel that the compression plates may move relative to each other.

[0218] FIGS. 68 and 69 illustrate another firing beam support assembly 3200 that may be used in connection with various surgical instrument examples disclosed herein. As can be seen in those Figures, the firing beam support assembly 3200 may include a support retainer 3210 that has a somewhat box-like shape. In the illustrated example, the retainer 3200 includes solid top and bottom portions 3212, 3214 that are interconnected by spaced side members 3216, 3218 that each have a series of windows 3220 therein to provide the retainer with some bending flexure (represented by arrow “B”) in the Z directions, but no significant flexure in the “Y” directions. The proximal end 3211 of the support retainer 3210 includes a proximal flange 3213 for movable mounting within an aperture in the spine or frame assembly of the surgical instrument as was described herein. Similarly, the distal end 3215 of the support retainer 3210 has a distal flange 3217 for movable mounting within an aperture in the proximal end portion of the elongate channel as was also described herein. A pair of downwardly extending top lugs 3230 protrude from the top portion 3212 and a pair of upwardly protruding bottom lugs 3232 protrude from the bottom portion 3214 as shown. The top and bottom lugs 3230 and 3232 define a firing beam channel 3240 through which the firing beam (not shown) may axially extend. In one arrangement, the outer laminate layers of the firing beam may be received between the lugs 3230 and 3232. In the illustrated example, however, first and second friction spacers 3250, 3252 extend between the lugs 3230, 3232. In addition, the illustrated example includes compression plates 3260, 3262 of the type and construction described herein to provide compressive support to the firing beam as it passes through the retainer to prevent bucking of the firing beam during articulation of the surgical instrument.

[0219] FIG. 70 illustrates another firing beam support assembly 3300 that may be used in connection with various surgical instrument examples disclosed herein. As can be seen in those Figures, the firing beam support assembly 3300 includes a tubular body 3302 that is fabricated from, for example, Nylon, polcarbonate, Isoplast®, etc. The body 3302 includes a firing beam passage 3304 for movably receiving a firing beam (not shown) therethrough and is configured to afford some bending/flexure in the Z directions. The proximal end 3311 of the firing beam support assembly 3300 includes a proximal flange 3313 for movable mounting within an aperture in the spine or frame assembly of the surgical instrument as was described herein. Similarly, the distal end 32315 of the firing beam support assembly 3300 has a distal flange 3317 for movable mounting within an aperture in the proximal end portion of the elongate channel as was also described herein. FIG. 71 illustrates another firing beam support assembly 3300′ that is identical to the firing beam support assembly 3300 but includes windows 3310 in the side walls thereof to enhance the flexibility of the body 3302 in the Z directions.

[0220] FIG. 72 illustrates an exemplary motor driven (or “powered”) surgical instrument 4010 which includes a housing or handle 4020, an elongate shaft assembly 4100 and an end effector 4200 that is operably connected to the elongate shaft assembly 4100. The end effector 4200 is similar to end effector 200 as was discussed in detail above. As indicated above and will be describe further below, various portions of the surgical instrument 4010 are motor driven. In addition, the elongate shaft assembly 4010 is configured for detachment from the handle 4020. Various features and details regarding these components may be found in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/803,053, entitled INTERCHANGEABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES FOR USE WITH A SURGICAL INSTRUMENT, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263564, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0221] The end effector 4200 includes, among other things, an elongate channel 210 that is configured to operably support a staple cartridge 230 therein. The end effector 200 further includes an anvil 250 that includes an anvil body 252 that has a staple forming undersurface 254 thereon. The anvil 250 is moved between open and closed positions by a closure tube assembly 4120 that is axially advanced in the distal and proximal directions by actuating the closure trigger 4028. The closure tube assembly 4120 includes a proximal closure tube shaft segment 4123 that is pivotally coupled to a distal closure tube segment 4130 in the manners described herein to facilitate articulation about an articulation axis B-B. The proximal closure tube shaft segment 4123 includes a proximal end portion 4200 that operably interfaces with a nozzle assembly 4202, a switch drum arrangement 4204 and a slip ring assembly 4206. Further details regarding the nozzle assembly, the switch drum arrangement and the slip ring assembly may be found in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2014/0263564, which has been herein incorporated by reference in its entirety as well as in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,075, filed Mar. 26, 2014, entitled MODULAR POWERED SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH DETACHABLE SHAFT ASSEMBLIES, the entire disclosure of which is also hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0222] The closure tube arrangements disclosed in the references above generally have a fixed closure stroke range. That is, actuation of the closure trigger or other closure actuator arrangement results in the axial advancement of the closure tube. The magnitude of such axial advancement is limited to the amount of space available in the handle or housing for accommodating all of the various components of the closure system. For example, the hand-held embodiments employ a handle that can be easily supported and manipulated in one hand. Such handle arrangements, however have limited space for accommodating the closure and firing systems. As discussed in detail in those references, in some arrangements, the firing trigger is movably linked to a closure shuttle that is attached to the closure tube assembly. Actuation of the closure trigger causes the linkage arrangement to axially advance the closure shuttle and the closure tube assembly. Various advantages may be gained by increasing the amount or magnitude of such closure stroke.

[0223] The shaft assembly 4100 includes a chassis 4300 that is configured to be removably coupled to the handle 4020 in the various manners described in further detail in the above-identified references. As can be seen in FIGS. 76 and 77, the shaft assembly 4100 includes the proximal frame or proximal spine portion 4160 that includes a proximal end 4161 which is rotatably supported in a chassis 4300. In the illustrated example, the proximal end 4141 of the proximal frame portion 4160 has a thread 4163 formed thereon for threaded attachment to a spine bearing 4180 configured to be supported within the chassis 4300. Such an arrangement facilitates rotatable attachment of the proximal frame portion 4160 to the chassis 4300 such that the spine assembly 4159 may be selectively rotated about a shaft axis SA-SA relative to the chassis 4300.

[0224] Referring primarily to FIGS. 75-77, the interchangeable shaft assembly 4100 includes a closure shuttle 4350 that is slidably supported within the chassis 4300 such that it may be axially moved relative thereto. The proximal closure tube segment 4123 is coupled to the closure shuttle 4350 for relative rotation thereto. For example, a U shaped connector 263 is inserted into an annular slot 4129 in the proximal closure tube segment 4123 and is retained within vertical slots in the closure shuttle 4350. Such an arrangement serves to attach the proximal closure tube segment 4123 to the closure shuttle 4350 for axial travel therewith while enabling the proximal closure tube segment 4123 to rotate relative to the closure shuttle 4350 about the shaft axis SA-SA. A closure spring 4353 is journaled on the proximal closure tube segment 4123 and serves to bias the closure tube proximal closure tube segment 4123 in the proximal direction “PD” which can serve to pivot the closure trigger4028 into the unactuated position when the shaft assembly 4100 is operably coupled to the handle 4020.

[0225] The shaft assembly 4100 further includes a closure transmission assembly 4500 for amplifying the amount of closure motion that is applied to the closure shuttle 4350 and ultimately to the anvil through the closure tube assembly. Such arrangement offers various advantages such as the ability to increase the closure stroke which can lead to more jaw opening ability. Stated another way, this extra stroke capability on both the proximal and distal ends allow the distal closure tube segment to also be retracted in the proximal direction further to provide the anvil with the ability to open further. As can be seen in FIGS. 75 and 76, the closure transmission 4500 links the closure shuttle 4350 to a proximal closure hook assembly 4360. The proximal closure hook assembly 4360 includes hooks 4362 that are adapted to hookingly engage the attachment pin 4033 that is attached to a second closure link 4031that is operably coupled to the closure trigger 4028 as described in detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/226,075. As described in that reference, actuation of the closure trigger 4028 will distally advance the closure link 4031 and apply a distal closure motion to the proximal closure hook assembly 4360.

[0226] In the illustrated example, the closure transmission assembly 4500 includes a proximal closure hook rack 4504 that is attached to the proximal closure hook assembly 4360. In addition, the closure transmission assembly 4500 further includes a transfer rack 4506 that is movably supported in transmission housing 4502. The closure transmission assembly 4500 further includes a distal closure rack 4508 that is attached to the closure shuttle 4350. A closure pinion 4510 is in meshing engagement with the closure hook rack 4504 and the transfer rack 4506. A transfer pinion gear 4512 is attached to a multiplier pinion gear 4514 and is in meshing engagement with the transfer rack 4506. The multiplier pinion is in meshing engagement with the distal closure rack 4508. Thus, actuation of the closure trigger 4028 results in the distal advancement of the closure hook rack 4504 which ultimately results in the distal advancement of the distal closure hook rack 4508 and the closure shuttle 4350. Distal movement of the closure shuttle 4350 results in distal movement of the closure tube assembly.

[0227] Thus, the closure transmission assembly essentially comprises means for increasing a closure stroke of the closure tube assembly. For example, a conventional closure arrangement may comprise a closure actuator that, upon actuation, applies a closure motion to the closure tube assembly. Application of such closure motion results in the axial movement of the closure tube assembly through a closure stroke that has a maximum range of axial closure travel “MCT”. A surgical instrument that employs a closure transmission assembly of the various types and constructions disclosed herein will also have a closure stroke that has a maximum range of axial closure travel “MCT1”. With all other aspects of these devices being otherwise the same or identical, MCT1 >MCT.

[0228] Referring now to FIGS. 78-80, the end effector 200 is coupled to the elongate shaft assembly 4100 by an articulation joint 109 of the type and construction described above. However, other articulation joint arrangements could also be employed. In the illustrated example, the shaft assembly 4100 includes a closure tube assembly 4120 that includes the proximal closure tube segment 4123. The illustrated example further includes a flexible closure tube segment 4600 that is coupled to the distal end of the distal closure tube segment 4123 for travel therewith. The flexible closure tube segment 4600 sized to extend over the articulation joint 109 and includes a distal end 4602 and a proximal end 4604. The proximal end 4604 is attached to the distal end of the distal closure tube segment 4123. A flexible tubular segment 4610 extends between the proximal end 4604 and the distal end 4602 and, in the illustrated example, includes two spaced, axially extending upper and lower spine members 4612, 4614. Extending from each lateral side are a plurality of spaced rib members 4616 that serve to define a tubular path through which the articulation joint extends. When the closure tube assembly 4120 is axially advanced in the distal direction “DD”, the distal end 4602 of the flexible closure tube segment 4600 interacts with the anvil 250 in the various manners described herein to move the anvil 250 to closed positions. The flexible closure tube segment 4600 also accommodates articulation of the end effector 200 as illustrated in FIG. 80.

[0229] A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector that comprises first and second jaw members wherein application of a closure motion to at least one of the first and second jaw members results in the movement of the at least one of the first and second jaw members to a closed position relative to the other of the first and second jaw members. A firing member is supported in one of the first and second jaw members for axial travel therein in respond to an application of a firing motion thereto. The surgical instrument further comprises a shaft assembly that defines a shaft axis. An articulation joint couples the surgical end effector to the shaft assembly for selective articulation relative thereto about an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis upon application of articulation motions to the surgical end effector. A flexible firing beam extends through the articulation joint to interface with the firing member in the surgical end effector to apply the firing motion thereto. A pair of firing beam support members flank the flexible firing beam and extend across the articulation joint. The firing beam support members of the pair are movably coupled together to prevent lateral movement away from each other in directions transverse to the shaft axis while permitting the firing beam support members to move axially relative to each other.

[0230] The surgical instrument of Example 1, wherein the flexible firing beam includes first and second lateral sides. The firing beam support members comprise a first compression plate that is positioned against a portion of the first lateral side of the flexible firing beam and a second compression plate that is positioned against another portion of the second lateral side of the flexible firing beam.

[0231] The surgical instrument of Example 2, wherein the first and second compression plates are coupled together by a proximal coupler and a distal coupler that each extend at least partially around corresponding portions of the first and second compression plates and portions of the firing beam that extend between the first and second compression plates.

[0232] The surgical instrument of Example 3, wherein the proximal coupler extends around corresponding proximal portions of the first and second compression plates. The distal coupler extends around corresponding distal portions of the first and second compression plates.

[0233] The surgical instrument of Example 4, wherein the corresponding proximal portions comprise upper and lower proximal notches in each of the first and second compression plates. The corresponding distal portions comprise upper and lower distal notches in each of the first and second compression plates.

[0234] The surgical instrument of Example 5, wherein the upper and lower proximal notches and the upper and lower distal notches define a predetermined amount of axial travel that the first and second compression plates may move relative to each other.

[0235] The surgical instrument of Examples 3, 4, 5 or 6, wherein the proximal and distal couplers extend completely around the corresponding portions of the first and second compression plates and the portions of the firing beam that extend therebetween.

[0236] The surgical instrument of Example 1, wherein each of the firing beam support members comprises a distal end that is coupled to a corresponding portion of one of the first and second jaw members and a proximal end that is coupled to a corresponding portion of the shaft assembly.

[0237] The surgical instrument of Example 8, wherein each distal end is movably coupled to the corresponding portion of one of the first and second jaw members and each proximal end is movably coupled to the corresponding portion of the shaft assembly.

[0238] A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector that comprises first and second jaw members wherein application of a closure motion to at least one of the first and second jaw members results in the movement of the at least one of the first and second jaw members to a closed position relative to the other of the first and second jaw members. A firing member is supported in one of the first and second jaw members for axial travel therein in response to an application of a firing motion thereto. The surgical instrument further comprises a shaft assembly that defines a shaft axis. An articulation joint couples the surgical end effector to the shaft assembly for selective articulation relative thereto about an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis upon application of articulation motions to the surgical end effector. A flexible firing beam extends through the articulation joint to interface with the firing member in the surgical end effector to apply the firing motion thereto. A flexible firing beam support assembly flanks the flexible firing beam and extends across the articulation joint. The flexible firing beam support assembly comprises a first side member that is adjacent to a portion of a first side of the flexible firing beam. A second side member is adjacent to another portion of a second side of the flexible firing beam and is coupled to the first side member in spaced apart relation thereto. A distal end is coupled to one of the first and second jaw members and a proximal end is coupled to a portion of the shaft assembly.

[0239] The surgical instrument of Example 10, wherein the distal end is movably coupled to one of the first and second jaw members and the proximal end is movably coupled to the portion of the shaft assembly.

[0240] The surgical instrument of Examples 10 or 11, wherein a distal flange assembly extends between the first and second side members and is coupled thereto. The distal flange assembly is sized to be movably received within an aperture in one of the first and second jaw members for axial travel therein. The proximal end comprises a proximal flange assembly that may be coupled to the first and second side members and extend therebetween. The proximal flange assembly is configured to be movably received within another aperture in a portion of the shaft assembly for axial travel therein.

[0241] The surgical instrument of Example 10, further comprising a first upper lip on the first side member that extends in a direction toward the second side member and a second support lip on the second side member the extends in another direction toward the first side member.

[0242] The surgical instrument of Example 10, wherein the firing beam support assembly further comprises a top portion that spans the portion and the another portion of the firing beam and interconnects the first and second side members. The firing beam support assembly further comprises a bottom portion that spans the portion and the another portion of the firing beam and interconnects the first and second side members. The first and second side members and the top and bottom portions form a flexible box-shaped member that spans the articulation joint.

[0243] The surgical instrument of Examples 10 or 14, further comprising examples, a plurality of openings extending through the first and second side members.

[0244] The surgical instrument of Examples 14 or 15, wherein the surgical instrument further comprises a first friction spacer that is supported adjacent to the first side of the firing beam and a second friction spacer that is supported adjacent to the second side of the firing beam.

[0245] The surgical instrument of Examples 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 or 16 further comprising a closure system that operably interfaces with at least one of the first and second jaw members for applying the closure motion thereto and a firing system that operably interfaces with the firing beam to apply the firing motion thereto. The firing system is independently operable from the closure system.

[0246] A surgical instrument comprising a surgical end effector that comprises first and second jaw members wherein application of a closure motion to at least one of the first and second jaw members results in the movement of the at least one of the first and second jaw members to a closed position relative to the other of the first and second jaw members. A firing member is supported in one of the first and second jaw members for axial travel therein in response to an application of a firing motion thereto. The surgical instrument further comprises a shaft assembly that defines a shaft axis. An articulation joint couples the surgical end effector to the shaft assembly for selective articulation relative thereto about an articulation axis that is transverse to the shaft axis upon application of articulation motions to the surgical end effector. A flexible firing beam extends through the articulation joint to interface with the firing member in the surgical end effector to apply the firing motion thereto. A plurality of firing beam support members is journaled on a portion of the firing beam that corresponds with the articulation joint. Each of the firing beam support members is independently moveable relative to each other.

[0247] The surgical instrument of Example 18, further comprising at least one axially movable articulation actuator extending through each firing beam support member.

[0248] The surgical instrument of Example 19, wherein the at least one axially movable articulation actuator comprises a pair of tension cables that extend through each firing beam support member.

[0249] The entire disclosures of:

[0250] U.S. Pat. No. 5,403,312, entitled ELECTROSURGICAL HEMOSTATIC DEVICE, which issued on Apr. 4, 1995;

[0251] U.S. Pat. No. 7,000,818, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT HAVING SEPARATE DISTINCT CLOSING AND FIRING SYSTEMS, which issued on Feb. 21, 2006;

[0252] U.S. Pat. No. 7,422,139, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH TACTILE POSITION FEEDBACK, which issued on Sep. 9, 2008;

[0253] U.S. Pat. No. 7,464,849, entitled ELECTRO-MECHANICAL SURGICAL INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE SYSTEM AND ANVIL ALIGNMENT COMPONENTS, which issued on Dec. 16, 2008;

[0254] U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,334, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING AN ARTICULATING END EFFECTOR, which issued on Mar. 2, 2010;

[0255] U.S. Pat. No. 7,753,245, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS, which issued on Jul. 13, 2010;

[0256] U.S. Pat. No. 8,393,514, entitled SELECTIVELY ORIENTABLE IMPLANTABLE FASTENER CARTRIDGE, which issued on Mar. 12, 2013;

[0257] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/343,803, entitled SURGICAL INSTRUMENT HAVING RECORDING CAPABILITIES; now U.S. Pat. No. 7,845,537;

[0258] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,573, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT HAVING RF ELECTRODES, filed Feb. 14, 2008;

[0259] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/031,873, entitled END EFFECTORS FOR A SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed Feb. 15, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,980,443;

[0260] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/235,782, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,210,411;

[0261] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/249,117, entitled POWERED SURGICAL CUTTING AND STAPLING APPARATUS WITH MANUALLY RETRACTABLE FIRING SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,608,045;

[0262] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/647,100, entitled MOTOR-DRIVEN SURGICAL CUTTING INSTRUMENT WITH ELECTRIC ACTUATOR DIRECTIONAL CONTROL ASSEMBLY, filed Dec. 24, 2009; now U.S. Pat. No. 8,220,688;

[0263] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/893,461, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE, filed Sep. 29, 2012, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,733,613;

[0264] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/036,647, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT, filed Feb. 28, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,561,870;

[0265] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/118,241, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENTS WITH ROTATABLE STAPLE DEPLOYMENT ARRANGEMENTS, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2012/0298719;

[0266] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/524,049, entitled ARTICULATABLE SURGICAL INSTRUMENT COMPRISING A FIRING DRIVE, filed on Jun. 15, 2012, now U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2013/0334278;

[0267] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,025, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar. 13, 2013;

[0268] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/800,067, entitled STAPLE CARTRIDGE TISSUE THICKNESS SENSOR SYSTEM, filed on Mar. 13, 2013;

[0269] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2007/0175955, entitled SURGICAL CUTTING AND FASTENING INSTRUMENT WITH CLOSURE TRIGGER LOCKING MECHANISM, filed Jan. 31, 2006; and

[0270] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2010/0264194, entitled SURGICAL STAPLING INSTRUMENT WITH AN ARTICULATABLE END EFFECTOR, filed Apr. 22, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,308,040, are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

[0271] Although the various embodiments of the devices have been described herein in connection with certain disclosed embodiments, many modifications and variations to those embodiments may be implemented. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. Furthermore, according to various embodiments, a single component may be replaced by multiple components, and multiple components may be replaced by a single component, to perform a given function or functions. The foregoing description and following claims are intended to cover all such modification and variations.

[0272] With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations are not expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.

[0273] The herein described subject matter sometimes illustrates different components contained within, or connected with, different other components. It is to be understood that such depicted architectures are merely exemplary, and that in fact many other architectures may be implemented which achieve the same functionality. In a conceptual sense, any arrangement of components to achieve the same functionality is effectively “associated” such that the desired functionality is achieved. Hence, any two components herein combined to achieve a particular functionality can be seen as “associated with” each other such that the desired functionality is achieved, irrespective of architectures or intermedial components. Likewise, any two components so associated can also be viewed as being “operably connected,” or “operably coupled,” to each other to achieve the desired functionality, and any two components capable of being so associated can also be viewed as being “operably couplable,” to each other to achieve the desired functionality. Specific examples of operably couplable include but are not limited to physically mateable and/or physically interacting components, and/or wirelessly interactable, and/or wirelessly interacting components, and/or logically interacting, and/or logically interactable components.

[0274] Although various embodiments have been described herein, many modifications, variations, substitutions, changes, and equivalents to those embodiments may be implemented and will occur to those skilled in the art. Also, where materials are disclosed for certain components, other materials may be used. It is therefore to be understood that the foregoing description and the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and variations as falling within the scope of the disclosed embodiments. The following claims are intended to cover all such modification and variations.

[0275] The devices disclosed herein can be designed to be disposed of after a single use, or they can be designed to be used multiple times. In either case, however, the device can be reconditioned for reuse after at least one use. Reconditioning can include any combination of the steps of disassembly of the device, followed by cleaning or replacement of particular pieces, and subsequent reassembly. In particular, the device can be disassembled, and any number of the particular pieces or parts of the device can be selectively replaced or removed in any combination. Upon cleaning and/or replacement of particular parts, the device can be reassembled for subsequent use either at a reconditioning facility, or by a surgical team immediately prior to a surgical procedure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that reconditioning of a device can utilize a variety of techniques for disassembly, cleaning/replacement, and reassembly. Use of such techniques, and the resulting reconditioned device, are all within the scope of the present application.

[0276] Preferably, the invention described herein will be processed before surgery. First, a new or used instrument is obtained and if necessary cleaned. The instrument can then be sterilized. In one sterilization technique, the instrument is placed in a closed and sealed container, such as a plastic or TYVEK bag. The container and instrument are then placed in a field of radiation that can penetrate the container, such as gamma radiation, x-rays, or high-energy electrons. The radiation kills bacteria on the instrument and in the container. The sterilized instrument can then be stored in the sterile container. The sealed container keeps the instrument sterile until it is opened in the medical facility.

[0277] Any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated materials does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.

[0278] In summary, numerous benefits have been described which result from employing the concepts described herein. The foregoing description of the one or more embodiments has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or limiting to the precise form disclosed. Modifications or variations are possible in light of the above teachings. The one or more embodiments were chosen and described in order to illustrate principles and practical application to thereby enable one of ordinary skill in the art to utilize the various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the claims submitted herewith define the overall scope.